Wildlife Food Sources: Shrubs That Provide Berries and Shelter

Creating a wildlife-friendly yard is one of the most impactful ways to support local ecosystems while enhancing the beauty of your outdoor space. Shrubs that produce berries and provide shelter are a cornerstone of such landscapes, offering both nourishment and protection for birds, pollinators, and other wildlife. At Cold Stream Farm, we specialize in wholesale shrubs and bare root trees ideal for fostering biodiversity. Let’s explore some exceptional shrub species that make your yard a haven for wildlife.

Elderberry (Sambucus spp.)

Elderberry shrubs are a top choice for wildlife enthusiasts. These fast-growing plants produce clusters of small, dark berries that are a magnet for birds, while their lacy foliage offers excellent shelter for nesting. Elderberry flowers are also a favorite among pollinators, making this shrub an all-around winner for biodiversity.

Viburnum (Viburnum spp.)

Few shrubs are as versatile as Viburnum. With their vibrant berries, ranging from red to black, Viburnums provide a critical food source for birds like robins and waxwings. Their dense, branching structure offers excellent cover for small mammals and nesting birds, making them a cornerstone plant for wildlife-friendly landscapes.

Serviceberry (Amelanchier spp.)

Serviceberry is a stunning shrub that serves wildlife year-round. Birds feast on its juicy berries in summer, while the shrub’s thick growth offers safe nesting sites. In spring, Serviceberry attracts pollinators with its delicate blooms, and its vibrant fall foliage adds beauty to your yard.

Winterberry Holly (Ilex verticillata)

When food is scarce in winter, Winterberry Holly steps up to provide sustenance for birds. Its bright red berries stand out against the bare landscape, offering much-needed nutrition. The shrub’s dense branches also provide essential shelter from harsh weather and predators.

Red Osier Dogwood (Cornus sericea)

Red Osier Dogwood is not only beautiful but highly functional. Its berries attract a variety of bird species, while its vibrant red stems and bushy structure offer great shelter. This shrub is particularly beneficial near water sources, helping stabilize soil and prevent erosion while creating a riparian habitat for

Why Choose Cold Stream Farm?

At Cold Stream Farm, we understand the importance of creating sustainable, wildlife-friendly landscapes. We offer a wide variety of shrubs that are perfect for enhancing biodiversity and beautifying your outdoor space. Whether you’re planting for pollinators, birds, or small mammals, our selection has something for every wildlife enthusiast.

Ready to transform your yard into a haven for nature? Visit our website to browse our inventory or contact us today at (231) 464-5809 for personalized assistance. Together, we can help you build a landscape that nourishes and shelters wildlife while adding natural beauty to your property.